Crankbait is a lure that many anglers swear by, thanks to its effectiveness in catching a wide range of fish species. This type of bait is designed to mimic the movements of small fish, making it an irresistible target for predatory fish. Below, we delve into the specifics of crankbaits, including their operation, ideal usage conditions, and the types of fish that are most likely to bite.
What is Crankbait?
A crankbait is a type of fishing lure typically made of plastic or wood, designed to dive underwater when retrieved. It comes in various shapes and sizes, but all crankbaits have a few common features: a body that resembles a baitfish or other prey, one or two treble hooks hanging from the bottom, and a plastic or metal lip that causes the lure to wobble and dive. The size of the lip and the shape of the body determine how deep the crankbait will dive and how it will move through the water.
How it Works
The magic of a crankbait lies in its ability to simulate the movements of a live fish. As the angler reels in the line, the water resistance against the lip forces the crankbait to dive and wobble. This movement, combined with the lure’s color and reflective properties, mimics the appearance and motion of fish prey, attracting predators. Anglers can control the depth and speed of the dive by adjusting the retrieval speed and choosing a crankbait with the appropriate lip size and body shape.
Where to Use
Crankbaits are incredibly versatile and can be used in various fishing environments. They are particularly effective in areas where fish are known to feed on small baitfish. This includes clear water with rocky bottoms, around submerged structures like logs and vegetation, and even in open water. The key is to select a crankbait that dives to the correct depth where the fish are feeding or resting. Some crankbaits are designed for shallow water, while others can dive deep into the water column.
What Kind of Fish Will Bite
Crankbaits are effective for catching a wide variety of fish species, both freshwater and saltwater. In freshwater, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, pike, and trout are known to bite on crankbaits. In saltwater environments, species such as redfish, snook, and striped bass can be caught using this type of lure. The specific fish attracted to a crankbait will depend on the size, color, and movement of the lure, so it’s essential to choose one that mimics the local prey fish.
Conclusion
Crankbaits are a must-have in any angler’s tackle box due to their effectiveness in attracting and catching fish. Understanding how to use these lures, selecting the appropriate type for the fishing environment, and matching the crankbait to the target fish species can greatly increase your chances of a successful fishing trip. Whether you’re fishing in a freshwater lake or a saltwater bay, there’s a crankbait designed to catch the fish you’re after. With practice and patience, mastering the use of crankbaits can be an incredibly rewarding aspect of fishing.
